The public was able to tour the library between noon and 6 p.m. on Saturday

Receive the latest the-scene updates in your inbox

San Diego's long-awaited central library was dedicated Saturday afternoon in front of thousands of area residents during its grand opening ceremony in Downtown San Diego.

The library, located at 330 Park Blvd., opened its doors for a special sneak peek event that began with a dedication ceremony at 11 a.m. Following the ceremony, a street festival and library tours were planned from noon until 6 p.m.

The library is scheduled to officially open Monday, Sept. 30 at 9:30 a.m.

"We've got a three story gravity arch that is right above us that holds the six floors above and all the books because not every building could hold this weight," said Marion Ross Hubbard, a library spokeswoman.